Arsenal predicted lineup vs Southampton: Xhaka left-back, Lacazette out?

Arsenal come up against Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday in what is a true test of the players’ character following back-to-back defeats. Here is the predicted lineup.

As far as availability is concerned, Arsenal know where they are. The injuries that it was feared could derail the team have started veering the train off track. Mikel Arteta has to find solutions, and fast.

Defeat at Brighton was given a helping hand right from the get-go as Granit Xhaka lined up at left-back in place of Nuno Tavares, a move that saw Albert Sambi Lokonga operate as the lone No. 6 with Emile Smith Rowe and Martin Odegaard either side.

Needless to say, it didn’t work. What was a huge show of faith in Sambi was equally a demonstration of how little faith Arteta has in Nuno.

Arsenal predicted lineup vs Southampton: Granit Xhaka at left-back, Alexandre Lacazette dropped, Sambi in midfield, 4-3-3?

Fans will be pleading with the manager to find alternative solutions to Xhaka at left-back, with his presence in the centre of the pitch crucial to the team’s balance and control. Will the manager have learned or will he persist?

There is also scope for a change in shape. With it clear that Nuno does not stack up highly in his estimations, there is the potential for a new system that finds other solutions, as well as him sticking to his guns.

Is Smith Rowe more of a forward than a midfielder? Can Alexandre Lacazette be allowed to continue dropping 2/10 performances and offering nothing as the No. 9? Surely Eddie Nketiah has now earned himself a chance, arguably by default.

Massive decisions face the manager, those that could salvage the season or see it plummet further.

Goalkeeper & Defenders

Aaron Ramsdale (GK) – Of late it’s been tough work for Ramsdale in net. Every shot he faces seems to nestle into the back of the net and other than that he’s been rarely tested.

Cedric Soares (RB) – More of the attacking mould of right-back, Cedric even featured on the right of a back three against Brighton. His manager has faith in him and that doesn’t look like changing.

Benjamin White (CB) – None of the backline have impressed over the past two matches and while White can still pick out the balls in behind a high line, he needs to show more physical dominance.

Gabriel (CB) – One of the most improved players this season, Gabriel has suddenly forgotten how to pass a ball. Having a newborn baby and the sleepless nights that come with it must be impacting his performances.

Granit Xhaka (LB) – Is it the right move? No. Is the move that a sinking feeling in the stomach predicts Arteta will go for? Yes.

Sadly…yes.

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